How to Elope in Colorado
So, you're thinking about eloping, but you have no idea where to start? You're in the right place! Gone are the days when eloping meant sneaking off to the courthouse in secret. Over time, the meaning of elopement has completely transformed. Now, it's all about intentional, intimate wedding experiences—just you and your partner (or maybe a small group of your closest people) saying your vows in a way that feels right. Just a wedding day that actually feels like you.
So, you're thinking about eloping, but you have no idea where to start? You're in the right place! Gone are the days when eloping meant sneaking off to the courthouse in secret. Over time, the meaning of elopement has completely transformed. Now, it's all about intentional, intimate wedding experiences—just you and your partner (or maybe a small group of your closest people) saying your vows in a way that feels right. Just a wedding day that actually feels like you.
Whether you’re dreaming of exchanging vows on a mountaintop, skipping the stress of a big wedding, or just focusing on what truly matters—you and your love—eloping gives you the freedom to create a wedding experience that’s completely your own.
The best part of planning an elopement? Choosing the perfect location to say “I do.” With elopements being smaller and more flexible, you have the freedom to get creative with your location. This is your chance to turn that dream destination into the backdrop of your wedding day—whether it’s a rugged mountaintop, a secluded alpine lake, or that one place you’ve been dying to cross off your bucket list.
When planning your elopement, it’s the little details that make your day truly yours. Choose attire that fits both your style and your setting—whether that’s a flowing dress, a sharp suit, hiking boots, or something totally non-traditional.
Book your accommodations early, especially if you’re heading to a popular destination. And don’t forget to plan experiences that make the day unforgettable—a sunrise hike, an after ceremony picnic, a chef prepared dinner, or even something adventurous like a helicopter or a hot air balloon ride. This is your moment—make it as unique as your love story.
Eloping is all about creating a day that’s authentically you. Whether it’s just the two of you or a handful of your closest people, focus on the experience and embrace the freedom that comes with eloping.
From choosing a breathtaking location to planning meaningful moments—every detail is yours to shape. It’s a stress-free, intentional way to say “I do” without the pressure of tradition. This part of the planning process is all about letting your imagination go wild, and envisioning the most enjoyable day for the two of you, that would celebrate your relationship in the most authentic way.
Forget about any restrictions for a moment and just dream big—that’s where you’ll find what speaks most to you. You’ll have time to figure out the details later.
How to Get Started
1. Book Your Photographer
Most couples reach out before they start planning—and for good reason! We’re here to guide you through everything, from picking the perfect date and location to handling permits, finding the best local vendors, and making sure your day is completely stress-free.
2. Choose Your Location
Once you’ve set a date with us, you’ll get access to our exclusive elopement guide, packed with stunning spots that fit your vision. We’ll help you navigate reservations, permits, and all the logistics, so you can focus on dreaming up your perfect day.
3. Plan the Details
Now it’s time to book your lodging, transportation, and vendors (think hair & makeup, florals, officiant—we’ll send our top recommendations if needed!). Together, we’ll craft a timeline that includes all your dream locations and activities, ensuring a seamless day full of breathtaking moments. Pro tip: Don’t forget your marriage license!
4. Say “I Do” & Make Magic
Your elopement will be nothing short of unforgettable, and we’ll be there to capture every raw, emotional, and joy-filled moment. Within the first week, you’ll get sneak peek photos, and your full gallery will be ready in 2–3 months. The hardest part? Deciding which ones to print and cherish forever.
Let’s make your elopement happen! It’s time to start looking for your dream location here!
See My Colorado Location Guide Here
Twin Lakes, Colorado Summer Elopement
When Sarah and Gavin first contacted me and told me they wanted to elope in Colorado but have never been so they had no idea how to start. All they knew was, it would be just the two of them and they wanted beautiful mountains as a back drop. One of the first places I thought of was Twin Lakes, for its beauty and easy access.
Are you hoping to elope but have no idea how to plan or even where to go? Look into central Colorado! Twin Lakes, Buena Vista, and Independence Pass are all breathtaking.
Twin Lakes is a big beautiful pair of glacier carved alpine lakes, with awe inspiring mountains in the near distance to create glorious views. About 20 minutes south on highway 24 is the little town of Buena Vista, which is situated between the towering Collegiate Peaks and the flowing Arkansas river. So if you’re looking for things to do beyond the Lakes, white water rafting, mountain biking, and more hiking tails than you can count are just a short drive away!
When Sarah and Gavin first contacted me and told me they wanted to elope in Colorado but have never been so they had no idea how to start. All they knew was, it would be just the two of them and they wanted beautiful mountains as a back drop. One of the first places I thought of was Twin Lakes, for its beauty and easy access. Since they had never been to Colorado before, I wanted to be mindful of elevation change and avoiding big long hikes. The more we talked it through, the more perfect this area became. So they found an AirBNB and all they wanted, was to experience Colorado in a fun low stress way and commit themselves to each other somewhere in between.
When we arrived at Sarah and Gavin’s AirBNB the first thing I noticed was the view. The house was on a hill that overlooked the lake with Mt. Elbert hovering in the near distance. It had been raining that morning so the sky was overcast but the clouds were just starting to break up and a little bit of sunshine was peeking through, it was gorgeous. These two wanted a super relaxed day with a slow morning, so we planned to start our time together mid afternoon with one of their favorite things-cooking together. They decided to make pizza, and watching them roll out the dough and toss it in the air brought so much laughter and the connection between these two was so sweet and caring. Dan and I felt like we were immediately invited into their lives for a very special day ahead.
After helping each other get dressed, we decided to venture out to find the perfect location to say their vows. Because it had rained all night we wanted to stay away from muddy trails, we steered them to a gulch with dark green pines and long yellow green grass. The open view of blue gray mountains in the back ground was the perfect compliment of color. We hiked to the open space and the smell of the pine was intoxicating. Once we arrived and took a moment to look around, Sarah and Gavin were ready to say their vows and commit their lives to one another.
Once vows were said they were ready to play and explore the area and since we were at Twin Lakes we headed to the water. The overcast day caused the water to be bluish gray with a hint of green combined with the beige sand and we had the perfect combination for the most dreamy photos. They walked up to the waters edge to take in the vastness of the rocky mountains against the calm lake. They ran along the beach, jumped into each others arms and made life long memories of their most special day.
This day ended with their favorite dessert and drinks. As blue hour was fast approaching, the overcast sky was thick with blues and purples. Sarah and Gavin did one last walk with lanterns across the immense mountain landscape. The orange light glow on their faces and was the perfect contrast as night was fast approaching. This was such a special day Dan and I will never forget and are so grateful we were given the privilege to capture these incredibly special forever memories.
How to Elope at Sapphire Point Overlook
Sapphire Point Overlook sits between Keystone and Breckenridge on Swan Mountain Road, at an elevation of 9,500 feet. The overlook offers a stunning view of Dillon Reservoir, hemmed in by the Gore and Tenmile mountain ranges. It is the only designated site where wedding ceremonies are permitted to take place on the Dillon Ranger District. If you want to get married at Sapphire Point, you need to make a reservation
Do you long to say your wedding vows with beautiful mountain views, a gorgeous lake and tons of hiking opportunities? Sapphire Point Overlook in Dillon, Colorado has it all!
Sapphire Point Overlook sits between Keystone and Breckenridge on Swan Mountain Road, at an elevation of 9,500 feet. The overlook offers a stunning view of Dillon Reservoir, hemmed in by the Gore and Tenmile mountain ranges. It is the only designated site where wedding ceremonies are permitted to take place on the Dillon Ranger District.
If you want to get married at Sapphire Point, you need to make a reservation through www.recreation.gov it shows up on line as a campground reservation, but there’s no camping here only the overlook that’s used for wedding ceremonies.
In order to book Sapphire Point, you need to select a 2 hour time block: 10-12p, 12-2p, 2-4p…you get the idea. Keep in mind during the warmer months it books up very fast, with weddings before and after your time slot. You can book your time up to 6 months out, which I would strongly encourage if you’re hoping to have a summer wedding. Booking Sapphire Point cost $110 plus an $8 reservation fee.
You can’t go wrong if you decide to get married at Sapphire Point Overlook. There truly is so much beauty in the area. Dillon Reservoir is a huge lake with a ton of amenities. Breathtaking mountains, and rugged cliffs are just a few of the areas to explore!
I can help you plan the elopement/adventure wedding of your dreams. This is a perfect location with its paved parking lot and easy accessibility for the two of you or with your dearest love ones.
Garden of the God's Elopement
When Emma and Evan told me they wanted to elope in Garden of the Gods park, my heart jumped for joy! This is an area from my childhood, I know it so well and it’s always so much fun to go exploring. Emma dreamed of getting married in the mountains surrounded by red rocks and Garden of the Gods in Colorado was the perfect fit.
If you’ve never been to Garden of the Gods in Manitou Springs, Colorado, be prepared to be amazed. The stunning red rock formations are huge and easy to explore! While this isn’t a national park or a state park, it’s one of the most popular in Colorado. Great for hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, Garden of the Gods park in Colorado is 1,400 acres of spectacular scenery…and perfect for a spring elopement!
Besides hiking and climbing all over the red rocks in Garden of the Gods, there’s a whole area to explore in Colorado Springs & Manitou Springs. Manitou Springs is a beautiful mountain town full of restaurants, unique shops, and entertainment. A few miles down the road is the iconic Pikes Peak mountain, Crystal Creek + North Catamount Reservoirs, which are gorgeous blue mountain lakes that are great for kayaking, camping, and fishing. It’s an area that’s perfect for two or a family to have fun and explore!
When Emma and Evan told me they wanted to elope in Garden of the Gods park, my heart jumped for joy! This is an area from my childhood, I know it so well and it’s always so much fun to go exploring. Emma dreamed of getting married in the mountains surrounded by red rocks. Garden of the Gods was the perfect fit. They wanted their families and closest friends to be part of their day. So they planned some beautiful, traditional elements. They decided to get ready in two different Airbnb’s so they wouldn’t see each other. Emma, along with both mom’s and all her bridesmaids were together for hair and makeup. When it came time for Emma to put on her dress, the bridesmaids went into a different room so she could have a special moment with her mom. After the first look with the bridesmaids, they all gathered for a prayer and lots of hugs! After Evan and the groomsmen all got dressed, they surrounded him and prayed together too.
These are just a few of the traditional elements, see more of the story looking through the photos of this incredible day!
Emma and Evan wanted some traditional elements included in their Elopement day. They had two different Airbnb’s so they wouldn’t see each other, Emma did a first look with her bridesmaids and her dad, while her mom helped her get dressed.
After the ceremony, we went and took a few photos from around the park and Emma’s favorite rock formation “The Three Graces”. They both were exhausted after such a busy morning & afternoon so we all went and rested up for a few hours and we met back up for some food at their favorite burger place…”IN-N-OUT”
As it was getting closer to sunset, we went back to the park to explore and take some epic photos. We even caught some amazing views of Pikes Peak!
Aspen Colorado Elopement
When Jenni and Travis first contacted me, they were asking for a date that I wasn’t available. At first we were all bummed but after sharing dates I did have available they decided to move there date so they could have me photograph their elopement. I was over the moon, to say the least!
When Jenni and Travis first contacted me, they were asking for a date that I wasn’t available. At first we were all bummed but after sharing dates I did had available they decided to move their date so they could have me photograph their elopement. I was over the moon, to say the least!
The memories of this day are still so thick- sunrise at Twin Lakes, getting ready at their Airbnb, a beautiful valley to say their vows with their dearest love ones, and hiking to the Continental Divide for sunset photos. I re-live these moments every time I look through these photos.
Jenni and Travis love living a relaxed life, Sunday afternoon picnics are a must. She loves to cook, he loves to play music and they both love good wine. So our morning sunrise session had to include a breakfast picnic and dinner that night included 3 private chefs and a very special menu. They both love hiking and outdoor adventures, so it made perfect sense that they wanted to start their marriage in the mountains.
As always Colorado sunsets don’t disappoint, and on this day, it was one of the most colorful and magical moments. We couldn’t get over how vibrant the sky was as we hiked down, I just couldn’t stop clicking my camera! Once we reached the parking lot we all hopped in our car together to go meet up with their families for dinner prepared by 3 amazing chefs.
The night ended with dinner and dancing on the deck of their airbnb. It was a perfect day from beginning to end.
Ouray Colorado Mountain Elopement
Ever wonder how to elope in Colorado when you live in Nebraska? Well I’m here to help! When Krystal and Ben first contacted me and told me they wanted to elope in Colorado, I was super excited. I’ve literally spent my whole life in and out of Colorado. I grew up spending every summer there camping with my parents and when I learned how to ski, that became my reason to spend time there in the winter! I know and understand the state so well.
Ever wonder how to elope in Colorado when you live in Nebraska?
Well I’m here to help! Krystal and Ben first contacted me and told me they wanted to elope in Colorado, I was super excited. I’ve literally spent my whole life in and out of Colorado. I grew up spending every summer there camping with my parents and when I learned how to ski, that became my reason to spend time there in the winter! I know and understand the state so well.
So helping Krystal and Ben plan an elopement in Colorado felt very natural. They wanted somewhere beautiful but different. We talked about several different places but we all ended up loving the idea of going to Ouray. Ouray is known as the Switzerland of the U.S. and once you experience the rugged mountain ranges with year round snow, it’s easy to see how it got that name.
Krystal and Ben wanted a day for just the two of them. They love being adventurous and the outdoors but not into super long hikes. So I started doing some research on the area and found some beautiful trails that don’t require a lot of hiking. I found the perfect spot but it requires 4 wheel drive- Thankfully we drive a Jeep Wrangler so we were set!
Everything about this day was perfect from beginning to end. I re-live this day every time I look through these photos and I’m so grateful Krystal and Ben chose me to be the one to capture their beautiful love story.
We started their elopement day with a 6am first look. We were hoping for a beautiful sunrise but the day ended up being overcast, but the mountain views were so stunning, none of us even cared. After our morning together we were exhilarated and exhausted at the same time…so we decided we all needed a little nap break:) we met up again a few hours later.
We picked up Krystal and Ben at their B&B to head to the location I had researched so they could say their vows. After a fun drive up the mountain trails, we arrived at the most magical spot. We literally had 360 views complete with a roaring mountain creek. It. Was. Stunning! The perfect location to say some of the most heartfelt vows I’ve ever heard.
Everything about this day was perfect from beginning to end. I re-live this day every time I look through these photos and I’m so grateful Krystal and Ben chose me to be the one to capture their beautiful love story.